Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has criticised the Federal Government over what he described as a slow and inadequate response to renewed anti-immigrant tensions and xenophobic threats against Nigerians in South Africa.
Atiku said it was embarrassing that Nigeria, widely regarded as Africa’s largest country and a continental leader, appeared reactive while smaller African nations moved swiftly to protect their citizens.
In a statement issued by his Senior Special Assistant on Public Communication, Phrank Shaibu, the former vice president commended the Government of Ghana for quickly approving the evacuation of more than 300 distressed citizens following recent xenophobic threats in South Africa.
According to Atiku, Nigeria’s handling of the situation lacked the urgency, compassion and leadership expected from a country of its diplomatic standing and influence on the continent.
“It is deeply troubling that Nigeria, a country that prides itself as the leader of the Black world and the giant of Africa, once again found itself reacting instead of leading in a moment of continental crisis,” he stated.
“When the first signs of danger emerged, smaller African nations acted with clarity, compassion and urgency. Ghana moved decisively.
”Others issued strong advisories and activated protective mechanisms for their nationals,” he added.
The former vice president noted that although the Federal Government had now spoken about possible repatriation efforts, the delayed response raised serious concerns about the administration’s priorities and commitment to citizens abroad.
“Yes, the government has now spoken. Yes, repatriation talks have been mentioned.
”But the critical question remains: why did it take external pressure and the decisive action of others before Nigeria found its voice?” Atiku queried.
He observed that Nigerians living in South Africa had repeatedly faced intimidation, attacks, harassment and destruction of businesses over the years, while official responses from Nigerian authorities often remained limited to diplomatic statements and consultations.
“A government’s first obligation is the protection of its citizens wherever they may be.
”A government that waits until other nations have taken the lead before acting sends a dangerous signal that the lives of its citizens are negotiable,” he said.
Atiku further described it as humiliating that Ghana, despite having fewer diplomatic resources and a smaller population abroad, projected stronger leadership and compassion during the crisis.
He called on the Federal Government to move beyond what he described as “half-measures” by issuing stronger travel advisories, activating evacuation plans for willing Nigerians, intensifying diplomatic engagement with South African authorities, and mobilising the African Union to address recurring xenophobic violence across the continent.
“Africa cannot continue to preach unity while tolerating periodic persecution of fellow Africans.
”And Nigeria cannot continue to posture as a continental leader while behaving like a reluctant observer,” he stated.
The former vice president also urged the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to demonstrate greater urgency, responsiveness and competence in protecting Nigerians living abroad.
